Where to Eat on a Budget in Niagara Falls: 11 Local Favourites That Won’t Break the Bank

Let’s face it—Niagara Falls is not always the cheapest place to visit. With its amazing attractions, iconic views, and tourist-driven prices, it’s easy to find yourself paying a premium just to grab a bite. 

BUT! Here’s the good news: if you step a little off the beaten path (or just know where to look), there are some seriously awesome spots where you can eat well without spending a fortune.

Visiting Niagara Falls on a budget doesn’t have to end at exploring the free attractions. Whether you’re fueling up before a day of sightseeing or looking for a hidden gem locals love, this list has you covered. Here are my top picks for where to eat on a budget in Niagara Falls!

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1. Taps Brewhouse

Great beer, great eats, and great prices—what more do you need? Taps Brewhouse is one of our top favourite places to visit in Niagara Falls. They serve up delicious pub fare in generous portions (like amazing nachos and wraps) in a laid back atmosphere. 

Everything on their menu is priced at $20 or less, and the craft beer is brewed on-site (and is surprisingly affordable)! If you’re not into beer, they also have affordable cocktails, wine, mocktails, and even beer cocktails to try – all reasonably priced. With plenty vegan options available, it’s a great spot that offers something for everyone.  It’s also a hub for local entertainment, offering live music, open mic nights, and trivia.

During the summer you can grab a seat on their outdoor patio – a perfect way to soak in the sun after seeing the top sights in Niagara Falls.

2. Country Fresh Donuts

Don’t let the name fool you—this place is so much more than donuts (though those are fantastic too)! Country Fresh Donuts is a local go-to for the best wonton soup around and an absolute gem of a place. It’s been family run since 1991 and offers delicious bowls of soup and donuts at a price you won’t find – even at fast-food establishments.

Last I checked, a small wonton soup was $4.14 and a large (VERY generous sizing) was $8.18!!! 

The portions are more than worth what you pay for, and the service is always friendly. If you’re just after a snack, grab one of their fresh donuts—glazed, jelly-filled, or chocolate dipped—and a coffee for a few bucks. It’s casual, it’s cozy, and it’s a place you’ll want to visit again before leaving town.

3. Hi-Lite Restaurant

Hi-Lite Restaurant is a classic Canadian diner in all the best ways—no-nonsense, locally loved, and full of old-school charm that’s been in operation for over 90 years! The menu is packed with breakfast platters, home-style lunches, and daily specials, with prices that feel like they’ve barely changed since the ’80s. 

Breakfast here is legendary—especially the all-day breakfast combos that feel like a throwback to another era. It’s the kind of spot where you can get eggs, toast, bacon, and coffee for less than a fancy latte.

We’ve eaten here more times than I can count, and everything has always been spot on – to the service, food, and pricing. You’ll rarely spend more than $10–$15 for a full meal with coffee. It’s the kind of place where regulars are greeted by name, the toast is always perfectly buttered, and the coffee refills are generous.

Hi-Lite Restaurant is closed on Sundays.

4. Chuck’s Roadhouse

A popular place to eat on a budget in Niagara Falls is Chuck’s Roadhouse. It’s known for one thing: delivering big portions and bold flavours at ridiculously good prices. Where else can you get a steak and lobster dinner for $25?! 

Their menu is a meat-lover’s dream, loaded with ribs, wings, burgers, and loaded nachos. But there’s something for everyone—including vegetarian-friendly options and a fun kids’ menu. There’s a huge menu with a ton of variety – and all the prices are incredibly affordable. It’s not just the price that makes Chuck’s worth visiting – the food is actually really good!

Daily drink specials and value deals (like 18 oz beers mixed drinks for $5 or $15 full racks of ribs on Wednesdays) make it easy to treat yourself without splurging. It’s a reliable option whether you’re heading out with the family, on a casual date night, or just need to satisfy a serious craving after exploring the Falls.

Dana and I LOVE Chuck’s – so if you’re wanting a satisfying meal without spending a ton, definitely add this place to your list.

5. Betty’s Restaurant

Betty’s Restaurant is a beloved local institution located just a few minutes outside the main tourist area—and it’s absolutely worth the short drive. This family-owned spot has been serving up homestyle meals for more than 50 years. The portions are huge (you might even have leftovers), and the prices are incredibly reasonable, especially for what you get. 

Famous for their fish and chips, roast beef dinners (for $21.99!), and homemade pies, Betty’s is the place to go if you’re craving comfort food done right. It’s also popular with locals (especially those of an older generation), which is always a good sign you’re getting quality at a fair price. There are daily specials to pick from, too, and a kids menu, for even more added value.

It can get really busy here (especially with bus groups), so something to keep in mind! If you’re visiting as a large family of 8 or more, it’s best to reserve a table.

Be sure to save room for dessert – their pies are awesome!

Betty’s is closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

6. Queen’s Coach Restaurant

Tucked away from the tourist traps, Queen’s Coach is one of those spots that’s been quietly winning over locals for years. Located in a charming old coach house, Queen’s Coach serves classic diner-style meals at prices that are hard to beat. 

It’s especially popular for breakfast and lunch, with a loyal local following. The food is hearty (and provides classic comfort staples), the service is friendly, and it feels like a hidden piece of Niagara hospitality. Prices are refreshingly low for such generous portions. It’s the kind of place where you can still grab a full breakfast and coffee for under $10.

There’s even an entire vegan menu with tons of options – making this a great spot to eat plant-based while you’re in the Falls!

It can get super busy here (understandably) and you may have to wait a bit, especially if you come mid-late morning on weekends, but service is quick so you shouldn’t be waiting long!

7. Flying Saucer Restaurant

Yes, it really does look like a UFO from the outside. And yes, it’s worth a visit. The Flying Saucer is known for its fun retro space-themed decor and budget-friendly menu that’s been serving affordable meals to locals and visitors for decades. 

It’s especially popular with families (my parents took us here as kids all the time!), but honestly, anyone who loves good food at a ‘down to earth’ price will enjoy it. 

The breakfast is a standout (the E.T. Special is a must for large appetites!), or grab their Galaxy Special from 6:00 am – 10:00 am for $7.99! The lunch and dinner menus also offer up favourites like burgers, seafood, steak and ribs, sandwiches, and classic milkshakes. The vibe is fun, the prices are low (especially for a themed place like this), and it’s a great family-friendly spot that kids will remember long after the trip.

8. Cheryl’s Deli & Subs

Cheryl’s Deli & Subs is one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it spots that locals love. It may not look flashy from the outside, but it’s full of small-town charm and touted as one of those places where the value is as good as the food, and is pretty much unanimously known as the place to get the best subs in Niagara.

The subs are massive, fresh, and loaded with toppings, and the prices are super reasonable. It’s a great place to grab something quick, filling, and made with care. Cheryl’s is truly a hidden gem in Niagara Falls for unbeatable prices.

9. Niko’s Place

If you’re craving a good old-fashioned burger and poutine combo, Niko’s Place is your new go-to. It’s a no-frills, takeout-style joint that’s all about big flavour and satisfying portions at prices that are hard to beat. 

Their hand-pressed burgers are juicy, their fries are perfectly crisp, and the gravy-smothered poutine is legit comfort food gold. They also serve hot dogs, fish and chips, and offer options for kids too – making it a great quick-stop eatery when you want something tasty without the wait—or the bill. Their portions are generous enough to split if you’re not starving (but you probably won’t want to).

10. CreekSides Ice Cream Parlour

Don’t be fooled by the name—while CreekSides Ice Cream Parlour does serve up amazing ice cream (and lots of it), they also offer affordable delicious subs in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. 

Tucked in the quiet community of Chippawa (about a 7 minute drive from Table Rock Centre) Creeksides is a favourite for locals looking for a quick bite and a sweet treat. The subs are fresh, flavourful, and fully loaded—perfect for a casual lunch or dinner on the go. I recommend grabbing your food and heading to a picnic table along the Welland River, or if you’re visiting Niagara in the spring, head to Kingsbridge Park to see the cherry blossoms.

And then there’s the ice cream: dozens of flavours, classic cones, sundaes, and milkshakes that are perfect for cooling off after a hot summer day by the Falls. Great food, great value, and totally kid-approved!

11. Zappi’s Pizza

Zappi’s Pizza is a family-owned pizzeria that’s been serving up delicious Italian comfort food just steps from the Falls for decades. Known for its friendly service, generous portions, and homemade dishes made from scratch, Zappi’s is a favourite for locals and tourists. If Dana and I are craving pizza, this is our go-to spot!

Their pizzas are loaded with toppings and baked to perfection, and the pastas—especially the baked lasagna—are hearty and satisfying. You’ll also find fresh salads, subs, and garlic bread that’s worth visiting for. Or, if you aren’t up to dining in, they have awesome pizza and wing specials for takeout.

The prices are refreshingly fair for a tourist area (4 of us dined here WITH drinks for $100 -which honestly I didn’t think was bad!), making this a cozy and affordable spot to enjoy a casual Italian meal without the fuss.

Navigating Niagara tip: There is free parking on site, but the parking lot is small. If you time it right (outside of peak dining hours) you can easily find a spot. You can also walk here and take the Falls Incline Railway from the Table Rock Centre parking lot (if you already have parking and a Niagara Falls attraction pass which includes rides on the Falls Incline).

Dining in Niagara Falls on a Budget

You don’t have to empty your wallet to enjoy good food in Niagara Falls! From cozy diners and delis to classic pubs and quirky restaurants, there are plenty of delicious options that prove you can eat well on a budget.

Skip the overpriced chains near the Falls and check out one of these local favourites instead. Your stomach—and your bank account—will thank you.

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